Smart is a German car manufacturer, founded in 1994 as a joint venture between Daimler-Benz and the Swatch Group. The name derives from “Swatch Mercedes ART.” The brand was launched to create compact, stylish, and city-focused cars. Smart is best known for the Fortwo, a two-seat microcar designed for heavy urban traffic and tight parking spaces.

Later, variants such as the Forfour (four-seater), roadsters, and concept EVs were introduced. In the 2010s, Smart transitioned entirely to electric vehicles (EVs). Today, Smart is a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Geely, with new models such as the Smart #1 and Smart #3 representing modern electric crossovers.


25 Smart Questions

  • What year was the Smart brand founded?

  • What does the name Smart stand for?

  • Which two companies created the Smart brand?

  • What was the first production model from Smart?

  • How many seats does the Smart Fortwo have?

  • In which year was the Smart Fortwo introduced?

  • What was unique about the design of the Smart Fortwo?

  • Which model was Smart’s first four-seater car?

  • Did Smart ever produce a roadster?

  • What safety innovations were featured in Smart cars?

  • How popular was the Smart Fortwo in European cities?

  • Did Smart cars sell well in the United States?

  • When did Smart transition to fully electric models?

  • What was the first all-electric Smart car?

  • Which company is now partnered with Mercedes to run Smart?

  • What is the Smart #1 and when was it launched?

  • How does the Smart #3 differ from the #1?

  • What is the typical driving range of a modern Smart EV?

  • What role did Smart play in the microcar revolution?

  • How does Smart compete with other EV brands today?

  • What is the reputation of Smart cars in terms of parking and city driving?

  • Has Smart ever participated in motorsport or concept showcases?

  • Are Smart cars still sold in the U.S. market?

  • What design philosophy makes Smart cars unique?

  • What legacy does Smart leave in the automotive industry?